Evaluation of Play Distraction and Streamed Video Clips in Alleviating Anxiety Before Oral Premedication Among Pediatric Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The authors aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of active distraction using play dough versus passive distraction through video clips in reducing preoperative anxiety and improving acceptance of oral midazolam among pediatric patients undergoing elective surgery. The study found that both distraction techniques significantly lowered anxiety compared to standard care, with play dough proving to be more effective in reducing anxiety and increasing acceptance of medication. These findings suggest that incorporating play-based distraction into preoperative practices could enhance the perioperative experience for children and their parents.